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AC Milan open door to Balotelli exit

The Serie A side are keen to sell the Italy international but, despite holding talks over the striker, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has suggested he will not sign another forward

EXCLUSIVEBy Gaia Brunelli

AC Milan are keen to sell Mario Balotelli this summer and would accept a €20 million offer for the controversial striker, Goal understands.

The Rossoneri will take part in the International Champions Cup, which kicks off on July 24, and are eager to put a move in place for the striker before the squad meets up for the pre-season tournament.

The former Manchester City striker, who is currently on holiday in New York, is understood to favour a return to the Premier League with Arsenal.

Goal revealed Gunners boss Arsene Wenger had arranged to meet with Balotelli’s agent Mino Raiola during the World Cup for talks over a move for the striker.

But, after signing Alexis Sanchez from Barcelona for €40m, Wenger has since ruled out signing another forward this summer.

“Up front we don’t need any more,” the French coach said. “It’s not especially for numbers.

“We need a goalkeeper for sure and, after that, it depends on how our midfielders get through without injuries until the start of the season. Maybe at centre-back we’ll still bring one in.”

Milan president Silvio Berlusconi reportedly claimed the club missed out on a €35m deal to sell Balotelli to an unnamed Premier League club because of the striker’s disappointing World Cup showing.The 2014 Goal 50 will be announced on Monday 28 July. Who will win the prestigious annual prize ranking the 50 greatest players in the world from the past season? Get involved in the debate on Facebook or Twitter using the hashtag #Goal50